East Maroon Portal Picnic Site Near Carbondale, CO

About
Reviews (4)
Location
Policies

The purple Maroon Bells peaks over Maroon Lake with wildflowers in the foreground

About East Maroon Portal Picnic Site

East Maroon Portal Picnic Site is situated next to Maroon Creek, offering spectacular views of towering red stone cliffs, lush wetlands and evergreen forests. The area is an excellent gathering spot for families, group gatherings and parties. The picnic area is available for use by the general public, but can be reserved for private events. This is the only site available in the Maroon Bells Scenic Area for wedding receptions.

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season

Upcoming seasons

Past seasons

Closed periods

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Currently open - May 28 to Sep 30

Reviews (4)

Review Summary

4.0

4 reviews

75.0%

0.0%

25.0%

Dustin B

September 5, 2022

Hidden pond with 2 streams and benches just past the picnic are

Jitendra M

October 5, 2020

Great location, beautiful maroon creek right next to picnic site, maroon creek trail starts here which can take you to Matoon lake in around 3.1 mile hike. Amazing place!

Nicole O

August 23, 2020

i called 3 times, sent an email - all A WEEK BEFORE GOING TO GET REIMBURSED AND HAVE NEVER HEARD BACK!

Sandi M

August 2, 2020

Wonderful evening at the Eat Maroon Creek Portal Picnic site!

Location East Maroon Portal Picnic Site

Address:
Aspen Sopris Ranger District Po Box 309
Carbondale, CO, 81623
United States

Highway access

The East Maroon Portal Picnic Site is accessible via Highway 82, which connects to Aspen and Glenwood Springs. Maroon Creek Road leads to the site from Highway 82.

Latitude & Longitude: 39.1249 / -106.905

Elevation: 2664 feet

Map of East Maroon Portal Picnic Site location at Carbondale, CO, United States

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Policies & Rules

Arrival & departure

Check in time

7AM

General

Check in at Welcome Station, open from to confirm reservation for site.
No drinking water available at this site. Pit toilets are available.
Limited vehicle access to this site; shuttle bus service available
This area provides access to the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area. Camping overnight in some areas of this wilderness requires a permit. You must also have proper bear-proof food storage and a plan for human waste in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.
Independence Pass (Highway 82) is normally open from Memorial Day through mid-October, weather dependent; call the (877) 315-7623 for road updates.
Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing organisms by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Click here for more information about White River National Forest

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Nearby destinations

Pitkin

Aspen

Woody Creek

Last updated: June 3, 2026

Managed by USDA Forest Service